Kenyans React as Government Responds to The Economist Editorial

On May 24, 2023, amidst the heights of national discussion, State House spokesperson Hussein Mohamed addressed the media, shedding light on the government’s housing agenda. Little did anyone know that just weeks later, he’d be compelled to respond to a sharp critique that shook the foundation of perceptions surrounding President William Ruto’s governance.

The article in question, published by *The Economist* on July 3, bore a provocative title: “William Ruto is taking Kenya to a dangerous place.” Within its pages, the publication painted a portrait of a leader who had strayed far from his electoral promises. It argued that instead of uplifting the lives of ordinary Kenyans, Ruto has adopted an increasingly authoritarian style of governance—one where public dissent is met not with dialogue, but with brutality.

The piece notably referenced the tragic protests that erupted on June 25, protests that left lives lost, businesses shuttered, and an unsettling sense of fear among Kenyans. This narrative framed corruption and a host of other failures as chief indicators of a troubled presidency. It suggested, ominously, that Ruto should reconsider his aspirations for re-election in the upcoming 2027 General Election, cautioning that another term could further lead the nation down a perilous path.

Amidst such intense scrutiny, Ruto’s image was described ominously as “tainted,” leaving little to inspire hope for reform. Herein lies a critical question: How do we measure the effectiveness of a leader? Is it merely through press coverage, or should it include the lived experiences of citizens? It’s a thought-provoking dilemma.

In a bold counter, Mohamed addressed *The Economist*’s claims with a rhetorical flourish that was both insightful and confrontational. “What do you mean by saying President Ruto’s image is ‘tainted’ and he should not seek re-election?” he challenged. “Shouldn’t the voters, not *The Economist*, make that decision at the next election?” This question serves as a poignant reminder of the democratic principles that underpin governance—authority derived from the consent of the governed, rather than the narratives of international media.

Defending President Ruto’s administration, Mohamed argued that far from a descent into chaos, Ruto’s leadership involved navigating a turbulent sea of challenges through difficult but necessary reforms. In his remarks, he pointed to several indicators of progress: Kenya’s economy, he claimed, was experiencing revitalization. A key statistic he highlighted was the average annual GDP growth rate of five percent since August 2022, a remarkable figure that surpasses the global average of 3.3 percent and the regional average of 3.8 percent. He noted, with evident pride, that inflation had fallen from 9.6 percent in October 2022 to a commendable 3.8 percent by May 2025, well below the Central Bank of Kenya’s five percent target.

These economic figures, while promising, beckon further examination. Are they reflective of the realities faced by everyday Kenyans? Can these statistics alone assuage the fears and frustrations of those grappling with the cost of living? Mohamed seemed to perceive these indicators as powerful, but how they resonate within the hearts and minds of citizens remains a lingering question.

On the topic of multinational companies reducing operations or exiting the Kenyan market, Mohamed struck a note of optimism, revealing that companies like BUPA Global, Lloyd’s, and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development have announced plans to open their Africa offices in Nairobi. This could signal a positive shift, but it raises another provocatively simple question: Will these institutions positively impact local communities, or are they simply taking advantage of favorable conditions?

The conversation about protests is another complex area where Mohamed acknowledged the delicate balance between rights and responsibilities. He recognized that the Constitution guarantees the right to protest, but he also cautioned against the violence that has unfortunately marred some recent demonstrations. “The right to protest must not infringe on the rights of others. In any functioning democracy, that is always a difficult balance to strike,” he expressed.

As for President Ruto, he stands firm in his resolve to seek re-election, asserting that his achievements should speak for themselves as a testament to his capability to guide Kenya forward. He seems unfazed by challenges posed by competitors such as his former Deputy Rigathi Gachagua, insisting they have yet to present compelling reasons to earn the trust of the Kenyan populace.

This ongoing dialogue between criticism and defense not only shapes public sentiment but also reflects the intricate tapestry of governance in Kenya today. The stakes are high, and the conversations are far from over. As citizens, what’s your take? Are we witnessing a transformation or merely a facade? That, dear reader, is a question worth pondering.

Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring